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Apple’s wireless charger set to debut in 2018; Belkin’s coming this week

By Dan Pye ● Wednesday, September 13, 2017

Alongside its wireless charging-capable iPhone 8, 8 Plus and X models, Apple showed off its upcoming AirPower charging mat during yesterday’s keynote. While the accessory won’t be available until next year, it will be large enough to allow users to charge iPhones, Apple Watches and AirPods on a single pad (provided users have the new compatible AirPods case). The company didn’t say how much the charging pad will cost or a specific release date, only saying customers will see it sometime in 2018.

For those unwilling to wait for Apple to play catch up with an accessory to make the most of its new devices’ wireless charging capabilities, Belkin has stepped in to provide an option that users can have in their hands the minute they have a new iPhone. Belkin’s BoostUp Wireless Charging Pad ($60, available Sept. 15) debuted on stage during Apple’s keynote alongside the new devices, making it clear Apple stands beside the chargers’ abilities in charging its products. Mophie also has an offering coming soon, but their website isn’t clear on when. Since Apple’s devices use the Qi wireless charging standard, however, any Qi-compatible charging pad will work with them, including Powermat’s public charging spots. While Belkin’s offering isn’t anywhere near as large as Apple’s upcoming AirPower, it will be available when the new iPhones launch.